The topic of education’s role in fostering entrepreneurship is becoming increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. As an experienced IELTS instructor, I’ve observed a growing trend in questions related to this subject. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this important topic.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that schools should focus on academic subjects, while others think schools should prioritize teaching entrepreneurial skills. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question touches on the core debate surrounding education’s role in fostering entrepreneurship. It requires you to:
- Discuss the view that schools should focus on academic subjects
- Discuss the view that schools should prioritize teaching entrepreneurial skills
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Model Essay (Band 8-9)
Here’s a model essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
In today’s rapidly evolving economy, there is an ongoing debate about whether schools should maintain their traditional focus on academic subjects or shift towards teaching entrepreneurial skills. While both approaches have their merits, I believe a balanced curriculum that incorporates elements of both is the most beneficial for students.
Proponents of a traditional academic focus argue that a strong foundation in core subjects is essential for students’ overall development and future success. They contend that subjects like mathematics, sciences, and literature provide students with critical thinking skills and a broad knowledge base that can be applied to various careers, including entrepreneurship. Moreover, these subjects have been the cornerstone of education for centuries, producing generations of successful professionals and leaders.
On the other hand, those advocating for entrepreneurial education argue that the modern job market demands skills that go beyond traditional academics. They believe that teaching entrepreneurship can foster creativity, innovation, and problem-solving abilities that are crucial in today’s fast-paced business world. Furthermore, entrepreneurial skills such as financial literacy, marketing, and project management can benefit students regardless of their chosen career paths.
In my opinion, the ideal approach is to integrate entrepreneurial skills into the existing academic curriculum. This balanced method would allow students to gain a strong academic foundation while also developing practical skills for the business world. For instance, schools could incorporate project-based learning that applies academic concepts to real-world business scenarios. Additionally, extracurricular activities like student-run businesses or entrepreneurship clubs could provide hands-on experience without compromising core academic studies.
In conclusion, while both traditional academics and entrepreneurial skills are valuable, a combined approach offers the best of both worlds. By blending these two educational philosophies, schools can prepare students for a wide range of future opportunities, whether they choose to pursue higher education, enter the workforce, or start their own businesses.
(Word count: 298)
Education fostering entrepreneurship
Model Essay (Band 6-7)
Here’s a model essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
Nowadays, there is a debate about what schools should teach. Some people think schools should focus on traditional subjects, while others believe teaching business skills is more important. In my opinion, both are necessary for students’ future success.
Those who support academic subjects say these are important for students’ overall education. They think subjects like math, science, and history help students think better and learn about the world. These subjects have been taught for a long time and have helped many people become successful in different jobs.
On the other hand, people who want schools to teach business skills say this is needed for today’s job market. They believe learning about business can help students be more creative and solve problems better. These skills can be useful in many jobs, not just for people who want to start their own businesses.
I think the best way is to teach both academic subjects and business skills in schools. This can give students a good education in traditional subjects while also teaching them practical skills for work. For example, schools could have projects where students use what they learn in class to solve real business problems. They could also have clubs where students can practice running small businesses.
In conclusion, I believe schools should teach both academic subjects and business skills. This way, students will be ready for different opportunities in the future, whether they want to go to university, get a job, or start their own business.
(Word count: 252)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. This is crucial for achieving a high band score.
Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases (e.g., “rapidly evolving economy”, “cornerstone of education”), while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language. However, both effectively convey the main ideas.
Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures, while the lower band essay uses simpler constructions. Both are grammatically correct, but the variety in the higher band essay contributes to a better score.
Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 8-9 essay does this more effectively and subtly.
Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and nuanced arguments.
Essential Vocabulary
Here are some key terms related to this topic:
Entrepreneurship (noun) /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːʃɪp/ – The activity of setting up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit.
Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.
Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – The action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
Financial literacy (noun phrase) /faɪˈnænʃl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – The ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills.
Project-based learning (noun phrase) /ˈprɒdʒekt beɪst ˈlɜːnɪŋ/ – A teaching method in which students learn by actively engaging in real-world and personally meaningful projects.
Critical thinking (noun phrase) /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment.
Extracurricular (adjective) /ˌekstrəkəˈrɪkjələ/ – (of an activity) pursued in addition to the normal course of study.
Conclusion
The role of education in fostering entrepreneurship is a complex and evolving topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and using appropriate vocabulary and structures, you can craft a compelling essay on this subject. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the balance between vocational and academic education, or the importance of practical skills in the modern job market.
We encourage you to write your own essay based on the question provided and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This practice will help you refine your skills and prepare effectively for your IELTS exam.
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